Summary

The article emphasizes the importance for authors to plan beyond their first book to build a profitable career, as publishers typically do not profit from an author's initial release.

Abstract

The article discusses the challenges and realities of the publishing industry, particularly for first-time authors. It recounts an editor's advice at a writers' conference, stressing that publishers invest in an author's long-term potential rather than their first book, which often does not yield profit. The article suggests that authors should have a strategy for multiple books to establish a following and become profitable. It also acknowledges the evolution of publishing, noting that self-publishing platforms like KDP now offer opportunities for authors who may not have the time or ability to publish traditionally. The article encourages indie authors to consider their long-term engagement with readers through subsequent books, newsletters, and articles, which can drive sales and build a sustainable author brand.

Opinions

Traditional publishers are more interested in an author's potential to produce multiple books than in the success of a single title.
Authors should plan for a series of books to increase their chances of success and to satisfy readers who enjoy their work.
Self-publishing platforms have democratized the publishing process, allowing authors of all ages and circumstances to publish their work.
The profitability of an author often does not manifest until they have published two or three books and developed a loyal audience.
While one-hit wonders do exist, they are the exception rather than the rule, and aspiring authors should not rely on being an outlier for success.
Continuous engagement with readers through various forms of content can help authors maintain visibility and relevance in a competitive market.

Books | Publishing | Self-Publishing | Indie Authors

Authors: Are You a One-Trick Pony?

If you’re writing a book, don’t be a one-trick pony.

Photo by Jerry D. Clement; text added by Jacquelyn Lynn

Early in my writing career, when I was freelancing for magazines and before I had the opportunity to write my first book, I was at a writers conference where I heard an editor with a major New York publishing house say this:

We don’t want one-book authors. We don’t make money on your first book — we’re happy if we break even on that book. Authors typically don’t get profitable for publishers until their second or third book, after they’ve established a following. So when you send us a book proposal, be sure it includes your plans for at least two more books.

I’m paraphrasing, of course, but that was the gist of his message.

A woman in the back of the room raised her hand and said:

I’m 85 years old. It took me ten years to write my book. I don’t have time to write two more. What am I supposed to do?

The room full of younger, eager authors erupted in laughter, but she had a serious, valid question. Though the editor was sympathetic, he reminded us that publishers are businesses and they have to make a profit to stay in business.

Image created by Jacquelyn Lynn using MockupShots

Today that woman could publish her book on KDP. It might not sell many copies, but I’m not sure she cared. Of course, that wasn’t an option back then.

Though much has changed in publishing since then, many of the fundamentals have not. One of those fundamentals is the point that editor made: First books are rarely profitable for either the author or the publisher. It can take two or three (or more) books for an author to find an audience.

Indie authors who self-publish should keep that in mind. If readers who buy your first book like it, they’re going to want more from you — another book, a newsletter, articles, and so on. So have a plan to give it to them.

Your later books can boost sales of your first book. If a reader happens to discover you through your second or third book, they’re likely to go back and buy your first book.

Are there times when it works to only have one book? To be a one-trick pony? Sure, but that depends on why you’re writing a book. I’ve had several business clients over the years who wanted a single book to achieve a specific business purpose that had nothing to do with the success of the book. Those clients are not the kind of authors this message is for.

You can always find one-hit-wonder success stories that are the exception to the business model of building an author’s career with multiple books. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee is one. Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell is another.

If you’re hoping to join the ranks of those legendary one-book writers, know that the odds are stacked against you. If you can write one book, you can write two or more. It will increase your chances of success as well as expand the number of people you’ll reach with your stories or messages.

So don’t be a one-trick pony. Even as you’re writing your first book, be thinking about the second and third ones.

This article was originally published on my site at https://createteachinspire.com/authors-are-you-a-one-trick-pony

You can reach me there or email me at [email protected]

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